Core Viewpoint - Din Tai Fung, a Taiwanese restaurant chain, is experiencing contrasting fortunes in the U.S. and China, with significant success in the U.S. and a decline in China due to changing consumer preferences and increased competition [5][35][66]. Group 1: Performance in the U.S. - Din Tai Fung has opened 17 locations in the U.S., with each restaurant achieving an average annual revenue of $27.4 million, making it the highest-grossing restaurant chain in the country [10][28]. - The brand has become a cultural phenomenon, with long queues at its locations, where customers often wait two to three hours for a meal [11][12]. - Unique menu items, such as chocolate-filled soup dumplings, have gained popularity among American consumers, showcasing a successful adaptation to local tastes [19][76]. Group 2: Performance in China - In contrast, Din Tai Fung has faced a significant decline in China, reducing its number of locations from 32 to 14 due to a wave of store closures [5][46]. - The brand's pricing strategy has become a point of contention, with many consumers finding its offerings too expensive compared to competitors [41][62]. - Service quality has also been criticized, with reports of poor customer service leading to a decline in customer loyalty [43][44]. Group 3: Market Trends - The rise of Asian cuisine in the U.S. has been fueled by social media platforms like TikTok, which have reshaped consumer perceptions and preferences [71][78]. - The overall sales of Asian chain restaurants in the U.S. have increased by 7.6%, indicating a growing interest in Asian culinary offerings [79]. - In China, however, there is a retreat from "Hong Kong-style" dining experiences, impacting Din Tai Fung's traditional market [52][60]. Group 4: Brand Evolution - Din Tai Fung's initial success was built on high-quality service and a unique dining experience, which has since been replicated by competitors [57][61]. - The brand's adaptation to local tastes in the U.S. has been crucial for its success, while its traditional model has struggled to resonate with modern Chinese consumers [66][87]. - The contrasting fortunes of Din Tai Fung in the U.S. and China highlight the importance of market adaptation and consumer trends in the restaurant industry [66][88].
中餐界「爱马仕」,狂赚美国人29亿?
36氪·2025-08-28 00:09